Walker Promotes Importance of State Fairs in Illinois

STATE SENATE CANDIDATE STANDS WITH SENATE PRESIDENT TO CRITICIZE ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE’S SUGGESTIONS TO CUT STATE FAIRS

RED BUD, IL – Illinois State Senate candidate Jeremy Walker was joined by State Senate President John Cullerton earlier today to discuss the importance of agriculture in Illinois by celebrating one of Southern Illinois’ most well-regarded traditions - the DuQuoin State Fair. The fair has come under fire from a Chicago-based think tank with strong ties to GOP gubernatorial candidate Bill Brady. The think tank advocates eliminating or making severe cuts to the fair.

In front of the steps of the grandstand at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds, Walker talked about growing up on his family’s farm and the importance of learning about agriculture in Southern Illinois.

“Growing up on a family farm taught me a lot about a hard-work ethic and the importance of agriculture here in Illinois,” Walker noted. “Our state needs to continue to celebrate its rich agriculture tradition and the DuQuoin State Fair is a perfect time for families to do that. I’m committed to keeping one of Southern Illinois’ most celebrated events alive for years to come.”

Surrounded by local leaders, fair workers and officials, Walker discussed the Illinois Policy Institute’s report that proposed making drastic cuts to Illinois’ state fairs. According to their report, the cost of the state fairs in Springfield and DuQuoin outweigh their benefits. However, supporters of the state fairs, like Walker, point out that cities like Springfield and DuQuoin will lose revenue if they are eliminated.

“State fairs have a big economic impact on the Springfield and DuQuoin communities as well as the surrounding areas,” Senate President John Cullerton added. “Estimates show the Springfield fair has a $39 million impact on business activity and DuQuoin’s has an $8 million effect. That is why we need to fight these efforts to close down the state fairs.”

About Jeremy Walker – Jeremy Walker (D-Red Bud) is a first-time candidate for the Illinois State Senate. He is running against fifteen-year incumbent Senator Dave Luechtefeld (R-Okawville). Jeremy grew up on his family’s farm in rural Illinois. After graduating from Red Bud High School, Jeremy attended Belleville Area College (now SWIC) where he received his associate’s degree. Jeremy later attended SIU-C and received his bachelor’s degree in political science and minored in agribusiness before receiving his law degree from SIU-C as well. Jeremy lives in Red Bud with his wife, Jennie, and their newborn, Grayson Glenn.

###

Press Releases